Electric shaver with vibrating head

ABSTRACT

A hair cutting apparatus comprising: an elongate element ( 260 ) heated to a temperature capable of cutting hair; a vibrating structure ( 200 ), on which said elongate element ( 260 ) is mounted; and a housing ( 106 ) in which the vibrating structure ( 200 ) is mounted.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a US National Phase of PCT Application No.PCT/IL2003/000219, filed on Mar. 13, 2003.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to removing hair with a heat element.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The removal of unwanted hair from the body can be accomplished withmechanized means, for example razors, tweezers or wax, all of which areuncomfortable to use, irritate the skin and/or cause damage to the skin.

The use of heated wires or other structures to cut hair from a skinsurface has been proposed. However, a heat generator that generates heatof a sufficient magnitude to cut hair and is offset from the skin toprevent skin damage, often leaves behind unwanted stubble.

In Peterson, U.S. Pat. No. 3,934,115, parallel metal strips on the upperside of ceramic facing that contacts the skin, are used to cut hair.Hills, in U.S. Pat. No. 2,727,132 and P. Massimo in IT 1201364, use acontinuously heated element to burn hair. P. M. Bell in U.S. Pat. No.558,465, D. Seide in U.S. Pat. No. 0,589,445, G. S. Hills in U.S. Pat.No. 2,727,132, G. L. Johnson in U.S. Pat. No. 3,093,724, Hashimoto inU.S. Pat. No. 5,064,993 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,307,181 B1, F. Solvinto inFR 2531655 and EP 0201189, and E. Michit in 2612381, use a continuouslyheated wire to burn hair. J. F. Carter in U.S. Pat. No. 3,474,224,provides a circular comb device for burning nose hairs. These referencesdo not appear to provide a means of reducing the hairs to the level ofthe skin.

Vrtaric, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,254,324, provides a heat hair cutting systemthat is applied only to the tips of the hair to remove the split ends.

The present applicants have disclosed a heat-generating system forcutting hair in PCT publications WO 03/009977 and WO 03/009976. Thedisclosures of these applications are incorporated herein in theirentirety by reference. These applications describe methods and devicesin which a wire providing pulsed or non-pulsed heat is used to cut hair.As used herein, a heat-generating wire refers to one or more of: metalwires, ribbons or any other type of heat-generating elements capable ofgenerating heat of sufficient magnitude and/or duration to cut hair froman area of skin. In general, all of the configurations of wires, etc.disclosed in either of the above referenced applications. In addition,the structures and methods described herein are usable in or inconjunction with the structures disclosed therein.

In the above referenced PCT applications, the hair is severed close tothe skin by heating the hair. This severing of the hair may also destroyat least a portion of the hair below the skin. As used herein the term“cut” is used to describe this type of severing or shaving of the hair.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, awire generating heat sufficient to cut hair, is mounted on a structureadapted for cutting hair and vibrated in relation to hair on an area ofskin, thereby making multiple passes relative to the hair.

In an exemplary embodiment, the heat-generating wire is vibrated inrelation to the structure by a vibrating mechanism. The preferreddirection of vibration is generally parallel to the skin of the user andgenerally perpendicular to the ling dimension of the wires. Themechanism, for example, may comprise a motor having an asymmetricallyweighted rotatable component. Other known methods and/or apparatus forcausing vibration can also be used.

Optionally, the structure comprises a motion detector that turns thevibrating mechanism on or off in response to motion of the structure(i.e., the frame) along the skin. Alternatively or additionally, themotion detector switches the vibrator on or off when the structure movesabove or below a minimum speed in relation to the area. Optionally, themotion detector, in addition to controlling vibrations, controls theduration of the heat period provided by the heat-generating wire.Optionally, the motion detector comprises a mechanical detector or anoptical detector. Alternatively, the motion detector may, at least nearthe threshold modify the temperature or vibrations rather than turn themon or off at the threshold. As used herein the terms “turn-on” or“turn-off” include such more limited modifications.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, astructure adapted for cutting hair from an area of skin comprises anopening having a heat-generating wire mounted on a frame therein and twoor more elongate skin depressing elements have their long dimensiondirected toward the opening and the wire. Optionally, the elongateelements are planar with the skin or form an acute angle of less than 15degrees, optionally less than 5 degrees with the skin (i.e., the planeof the opening). Optionally, the two or more skin depressing elementscomprise two or more rows of skin depressing elements, separated by anddirected toward a gap in which the wire is located.

Optionally, the wire is mounted on two of more posts in the opening andthe opening comprises two or more post protectors positioned to preventthe posts from contacting the skin, for example by having one or more ofthe skin depressing elements project further from the device than theother elements or by the posts being covered by a solid element.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, astructure adapted for cutting hair from an area of skin comprises anopening in which a heat-generating wire is mounted on a positionallyadjustable frame. Optionally, one or more position adjusters are mountedbetween the frame and the structure. By moving the one or more positionadjusters, the position of the heat-generating wire is adjusted withrespect to the opening and/or the angle of the wire is adjusted withrespect to the plane of the opening.

Optionally, the frame is fashioned so that it plugs into mountingsockets and a portion of the frame and/or the sockets are electricallyconductive.

In an exemplary embodiment, the frame comprises two or more posts, eachpost having a guideway in which the wire is centered. In an exemplaryembodiment, at least one of the posts is resilient so that it maintainsthe wire in tension, for example, during longitudinal expansion that mayoccur during heat generation and/or due to pressure as the wire pressesagainst the hair. Optionally, at least one post is relatively flexiblewhen force is applied along the axis of the wire and/or relativelynon-flexible when force is applied perpendicular to the axis of thewire.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, amethod is provided for tensioning a heat-generating wire on a framecomprising two resilient posts. Optionally each post has a wire guidechannel in which the wire rests or is held. In an exemplary embodiment,the wire is pulled against the guide channels at an angle that causesthe posts to bent toward each other. While the posts are bent, the wireis attached to the frame or the posts themselves so that the postsremain bent to maintain the wire in tension after an external tensioningforce is removed. Optionally, the wire is tensioned during thetensioning and attachment process using one or more tension-providingmechanisms. In an embodiment of the invention, the posts are springy orresilient, which terms are used interchangeably herein.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, astructure having a heat-generating wire adapted to vibrate duringcutting of hair, comprises a collection apparatus that collects cuthair. The collection apparatus, for example, comprises anelectrostatically charged bar to which the cut hair is attracted.Optionally, the bar includes a comb and/or a brush to aid in bringingthe cut hair proximal to the electrostatic charge. Optionally, thecollection apparatus comprises a collection area, for example a cavityjuxtaposed against the structure.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, thestructure comprises a deodorant dispenser adapted to dispense deodorantin response to heat and/or vibration. Optionally, the dispensercomprises a venturi opening to facilitate deodorant dispensation inresponse to vibration. Optionally, the dispenser is adapted to receive asolid and/or fluid deodorant that atomizes and/or vaporizes in responseto heat and/or vibrations.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, astructure having a heat-generating wire adapted to vibrate duringcutting of hair, comprises an odor-reducing filter juxtaposed near thewire, through which odors generated by the wire pass. Optionally, thefilter comprises an absorbent material adapted to receive an odorreducing deodorant that further reduces the odors during said passage.In an exemplary embodiment, a rotating impeller is juxtaposed inproximity to the filter to cause passage of the odors through thefilter.

There is therefore provided, in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the invention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising:

an elongate element heated to a temperature capable of cutting hair;

a vibrating structure, on which said elongate element is mounted; and

a housing in which the vibrating structure is mounted.

Optionally, vibrations of the vibrating structure causes theheat-generating element to pass two or more times over hair as theapparatus is moved slowly along a hair containing area of the skin.

Optionally, the elongate element is mounted between two posts separatedby a distance, one or both of the posts comprising a springy material,adapted to tension to the wire. Optionally, each springy post isrelatively flexible in response to force applied in a first direction,and relatively non-flexible in response to force applied in a seconddirection. Optionally, at least a portion of the posts comprises aguideway against which at least a portion of the wire is mounted.Optionally, the posts are electrically conductive. Optionally, the wireis connected to the posts.

Optionally, the apparatus includes electrically conductive sockets onthe structure adapted to receive the posts.

Optionally, the apparatus includes two or more post stabilizers, whichlimit the movement of the posts with respect to the housing in adirection perpendicular to an axis of the wire.

In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus includes an eccentricrotating weight that causes the structure to vibrate as the weightrotates. Optionally, the apparatus includes a motion detector that turnsthe vibrating structure on or off in response to movement of the wirealong the area. Optionally, the motion detector turns the vibratingstructure on and off in response to a minimum speed. Optionally, themotion detector provides an indication of speed in excess of a givenvalue. Optionally the indication comprises a visual indication.Optionally, the indication comprises a shutting off of the vibration.

In an embodiment of the invention, the motion detector additionallycontrols the generation of heat on the elongate element. Optionally, themotion detector turns the heat generating element off in response to ameasurement of a speed less than a predetermined speed. Optionally, themotion detector turns the heat generating element off in response to aspeed greater than a predetermined speed. Optionally, the motiondetector comprises at least one of a mechanical motion detector and anoptical motion detector.

In an embodiment of the invention, the heated element is a wire.

In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand heldapparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hairon said skin.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a method of cutting hair from an area of skin with avibrating heat-generating wire, comprising:

a) heating an elongate element to a temperature high enough to cut thehair;

b) placing the heated elongate element against the area; and

c) vibrating the element in a direction perpendicular to a long axisthereof, so that it makes multiple passes over the area during theplacement.

Optionally, the method includes collecting the cut hair. Optionally, themethod includes moving the cut hair into a receptacle.

Optionally, the method includes moving the elongate element along thesurface of the skin of an area from which hair is to be removed by hand.

In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate element is a wire.

In an embodiment of the invention, the method includes moving theelongate element along the surface of the skin of an area from whichhair is to be removed by hand.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, an A method of manufacturing a tensioned heat-generatingwire, comprising:

positioning a wire on two separated posts, at least one of which isresilient in a direction along the wire axis;

tensioning the wire in a direction and by an amount sufficient to deformthe posts so that the positions of the wire on the posts toward eachother; and

fixing the wires in place so that they remain tensioned by the deformedpost or posts.

Optionally, when at least one of the posts is provided with a guide forthe wire and including:

positioning the at least one wire guide;

pulling at least one ends of the wire extending past the postions of thewires on the post in a direction having a zero or acute angle with theaxis of the post, to bend the post toward the other post.

Optionally fixing comprises fixing the wire to its respective post whileit is tensioned.

In an embodiment of the invention the positioning occurs at the tip ofthe at least one post and the fixing occurs proximal to the tip.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a hair cutting head, for use in a hair cutting apparatus andhaving a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, thehead comprising:

a) at least two rows of elongate skin depressing elements defining anopening in the structure;

b) an elongate element situated in the opening and capable of producingheat sufficient to cut hair, when electrified; and

c) a base on which the elements of the head are mounted,

wherein long axes of the skin depressing elements are pointed generallytoward the center of the opening.

Optionally, the long axes make an angle of less than about 20 degreeswith a plane defined by the opening. Optionally, the two or more skindepressing elements are separated by a gap in which the elongate elementis located.

In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate element comprises awire.

In an embodiment of the invention, the head includes one or moreposition adjuster mechanisms juxtaposed between the frame and thestructure.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a hair cutting head, for use in a hair cutting apparatus andhaving a portion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, thehead comprising:

a) a positionally adjustable frame moveably mounted on the structure;

b) a heat-generating elongate element capable of producing heatsufficient to cut hair, mounted on the frame near the opening; and

c) one or more position adjuster mechanisms juxtaposed between the frameand the structure.

Optionally, one or more adjuster mechanisms adjust the overall positionof the wire with respect to the opening. Alternatively or additionally,the one or more adjuster mechanisms adjusts the angle of the wire withrespect to the plane of the opening.

Optionally, the elongate element is a wire.

Optionally, the head also includes at least two mounting pins suitablefor mounting the head in a hair cutting apparatus said pins beingelectrically connected to said elongate element.

There is further provided, according an an embodiment of the invention,a hair cutting apparatus including:

a head according to the invention;

a power source operative to heat the elongate elements to a temperaturesufficient to cut hair.

Optionally, the head also includes at least two mounting pinselectrically connected to said elongate element and wherein theapparatus includes matching mounting sockets, electrically connected tosaid source.

Optionally, the apparatus also including means for vibrating theelongate element in a direction perpendicular to a long dimensionthereof. Optionally, the means for vibrating is operative to vibrate thehead with a motion causing said vibration of the elongate element.

In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand heldapparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hairon said skin.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure having aportion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, theapparatus comprising:

a) a heat-generating elongate element producing heat sufficient to cuthair, mounted on the portion; and

b) a deodorant or perfume dispenser juxtaposed in relation to theportion.

Optionally, the dispenser is adapted to dispense a deodorant or perfumein response to heat.

Optionally, the elongate element is adapted to vibrate.

In an embodiment of the invention, the deodorant dispenser is adapted todispense a deodorant in response to vibration.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure having aportion adapted for contacting an area of skin having hair, theapparatus comprising:

a) a heat-generating element producing heat sufficient to cut hair,mounted on the portion; and

b) a filter mounted on the portion; and

c) a pump mounted on the structure, adapted to cause air to flow fromthe element through the filter.

Optionally, the filter dispenses a deodorant or perfume into air thatpasses through it.

There is further provided, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, a hair cutting apparatus comprising a structure adapted forcontacting an area of skin having hair, the apparatus comprising:

a) a heat-generating elongate element producing heat sufficient to cuthair, mounted on the portion; and

b) an electrostatically charged element adapted for collecting cut hair.

Optionally, the electrostatically charged element further comprises atleast one of: a brush, a comb, and a hair collection receptacle.

In an embodiment of the invention, the heated element is a wire.

In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is a hand heldapparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cut hairon said skin.

There is further provided, a method of collecting cut hair, comprising:

a) cutting hair with a heated elongate element; and

b) collecting the hair cuttings with an electrostatically chargedelement.

Optionally, the electrostatically charged element comprises at least oneof: a brush, a comb, and a hair collection receptacle.

Optionally, the method includes collecting the cut hair into areceptacle.

Optionally, the heated elongate element is a wire.

Optionally, the method includes moving the heated elongate element alongthe surface of the skin of an area from which hair is to be removed byhand.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary non-limiting embodiments of the invention described in thefollowing description, read with reference to the figures attachedhereto. In the figures, identical and similar structures, elements orparts thereof that appear in more than one figure are generally labeledwith the same or similar references in the figures in which they appear.Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosenprimarily for convenience and clarity of presentation and are notnecessarily to scale. The attached figures are:

FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a structure supporting aheat-generating wire adapted for cutting hair, in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of an alternative structure of FIG. 1A,in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of FIG. 1A includingposition adjusters, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 3 is a partly sectioned isometric view of a vibrating hair cuttingunit, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 4 is side cross-section of the vibrating hair cutting unit of FIG.3, shown while cutting a hair, in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1A is a simplified schematic diagram of a heat-generating wire 260suspended on a frame 200, comprising two 240 and 242, in accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment,posts 240 and 242 comprise wire guideways 120 and 122. Heat-generatingwire 260 is optionally centered in guideways 120 and/or 122.

In an exemplary embodiment, posts 240 and 242 are held in position by astrut 244, for example substantially perpendicular to posts 240 and 242.Heat-generating wire 260, for example, is attached at wire ends 270 and272 to posts 240 and/or 242.

In an exemplary embodiment, a conduction post 290 is electricallyconductive and is attached to an electrically conductive area 190 whilea conduction post 292 is electrically conductive and is attached to anelectrically conductive area 192. Further, tension-providing posts 240and 242 are electrically conductive and connected to conductive areas190 and 192 respectively so that power provided through posts 290 and292 causes wire 260 to generate heat.

In an exemplary embodiment, one or both of tension posts 240 and 242 aremanufactured from a springy electrically conductive material so thatwhen properly positioned they serve to keep heat-generating wire 260taut during motion across a skin surface. Optionally, posts 240 and/or242 are relatively flexible so they bend when subjected to a forcepushing them towards each other. Optionally, posts 240 and/or 242 arerelatively inflexible so they do not bend when subjected to a forcepushing them perpendicular to the axis of wire 260.

In an exemplary embodiment, tensioning of wire 260 during manufacture isaccomplished, for example, in the following manner, when one or both ofthe posts are springy:

With the wire placed in guides 120 and 122, wire ends 270 and/or 272 arepulled in a direction 208, with sufficient force and/or at anappropriate angle, with respect to (horizontal) wire 260, to cause posts240 and 242 to bend toward each. Wire 260 is then attached to posts 240and/or 242, for example at points 276 and 278 respectively, usingsolder, electrically conductive glue (such as conductive epoxy) and/orother connection means known in the art. Mechanical connection such asclamping can also be used. Optionally the clamp is copper or gold coatedto provide a slightly conforming and highly conductive mechanicalelectrical connection. It should be noted that posts guideways 120and/or 122 may be continually bent toward each other by the tension ofwire 260. After attachment to the posts, free ends of the wires may beremoved.

A similar method may be used if only one post is springy (or even ifboth are springy). In this case, wire 260 is optionally permanentlyattached to the inflexible post (or optionally to the frame), before orafter tensioning. Then the other end of the wire is tensioned asaforesaid and the then attached to the frame or post on which it ismounted. Optionally, especially when the wire is pre-attached to one ofthe post, that post does not need a guide.

Optionally, additional tension to wire 260 is provided by one or morecoiled springs between posts 240 and/or 242 and wire 260.

Tensioned wire 260, will remain in tension even in the presence oflongitudinal expansion that occurs due to heating of wire 260 and/or dueto pressure as wire 260 moves in a direction 402 against a hair 404(FIG. 4).

One method of pulling wire ends 270 and/or 272 in direction 208 is byattaching wire ends 270 and/or 272 to on or more tension-providingwheels (not shown), positioned, for example on strut 244. By rotatingthe one or more wheels wire ends 270 and 272 are pulled in direction 208to tension wire 260. Other methods for pulling wire 260 in direction 208are known in the art and include, for example, attaching a springmechanism and/or pneumatic tensioning device to wire ends 270 and/or272.

In an exemplary embodiment, conductive post 290 fits into a socket 180and conductive post 292 fits into a socket 182. A friction fit betweensockets 180 and 182 and posts 290 and 292 is provided, for example toallow easy removal of frame 200 from sockets 180 and 182 for replacementof the entire frame or for cleaning and/or repair of wire 260. Sockets180 and 182, for example, are conductive and capable of transmittingpower from a power source, thereby providing electrical current toheat-generating wire 260 via posts 290 and 292, connection area 190 and192 and tension posts 240 and 242. It is generally envisioned that thewire, posts and strut mechanism will be replaced when the wire breaks.

In an exemplary embodiment, post supports 160 are positioned againstposts 240 and 242 to prevent undue motion in a direction 168.Alternatively or additionally, posts supports 162 are positioned againstposts 240 and 242 to prevent undue motion in a direction 166. Thisassures that motion applied to frame 200 results in desired motion ofthe wire.

FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of an alternative structure of FIG. 1A,in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, wire 260 passes through rings 150 and 152 in posts 240 and242 prior to tensioning and attachment to the posts.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of heat-generating wire 260 on frame 200of FIG. 1A, mounted in vibrating compartment 300 that projects fromvibrator posts 130 and 138. In an exemplary embodiment, a vibrator 350connected to posts 130 and 138, comprises a motor 234 having anoff-center weight 232 that causes vibration of vibrator 350 as motor 234revolves in a direction 230. Alternatively or additionally, vibrator 350is connected to posts 130 and 138 with a transverse connector 354.

An optional cross pin 132 passes through vibrator posts 130 and 138,allowing their movement around pin 132. As vibrator 350 vibrates, itimparts vibration to vibrator posts 130 and 138, thereby causingheat-generating wire 260 and/or compartment 300 to cyclically move indirections 402.

In cutting hair 404 (FIG. 4), vibration of wire 260, frame 200 and/orcompartment 300 facilitates heat-generating wire 260 to make multiplepasses over hair 404 while held against a given area of skin 400.Multiple passes of wire 260 increase the cutting efficiency ofheat-generating wire 260 during each period it contacts area of skin 400(i.e., as it is moved, by the user, across the skin surface). Theexcursion of the wire is between 0.2 and 2 mm, optionally between 0.5and 1 mm.

In an exemplary embodiment, vibrating compartment 300, for examplecomprises a snap-together structure and/or is removably attached tovibrator posts 130 and 138 so that it can be removed for cleaning and/orto allow removal of frame 200 from sockets 180 and 182.

As shown more clearly in FIG. 3, in an exemplary embodiment, compartment300 comprises a row of skin-depressing elements 312. Skin-depressingelements 312 serve to depress and/or tighten area of skin 400 (FIG. 4),allowing heat-generating wire 260 to cut hair 404 without sinking intoskin 400 and possibly dissipating its heat so that it cuts lessefficiently and/or burns skin 400.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention two rows of skin-depressingelements are provided on either side of heat-generating wire 260. Rowsof skin depressors are shown in the PCT publications described above,for example, posts or the like. However, the skin depressors shown inthe present embodiments differ from those shown in that they compriseelongate elements that whose long axis points generally toward the wire.The present inventors have found that the elongate elements shown hereinprovide for smoother and more comfortable travel of the shaver along theskin. Other configurations of skin-depressing elements 312, for example,comprising skin-depressing elements 312 at varied heights, angles,and/or planes with respect to skin 400 (FIG. 4), wire 260 and/orcompartment 300, are also contemplated in exemplary embodiments of theinvention. In preferred embodiments of the invention the long axis ofthe elongate elements is parallel to the plane of the opening (and thusof the skin) or are at a small (5, 10, 15 or 20 degrees) with respect tothe plane.

Alternatively or additionally, post protectors 340 and 342 extend beyondposts 240 and 242 and/or skin-tensing and depressing elements 312. In anexemplary embodiment, post protectors 340 and 342 prevent the heatand/or vibrations from posts 240 and 242 from damaging skin 400 (FIG. 4)or vice-versa, by offsetting the proximate area of skin 400 proximalaway from posts 240 and 242.

In an exemplary embodiment, wheels 318, 320 and/or 330 are juxtaposedagainst strut 244 and are rotatable so that flats 388, 390 and 392respectively adjust the position of strut 244. Positional adjustments ofstrut 244 affect the position of wire 260 with respect toskin-depressing elements 312 and hence against area of skin 400. Byrotating wheels 318, 320 and/or 330, an operator, for example, controlsthe closeness of heat-generating wire 260 to skin-depressing elements312, adjusting the position of wire 260 in a direction 248.Alternatively or additionally, the operator adjusts the angle of wire260 to skin-depressing elements 312, for example in directions 284and/or 286.

Using wheels 318, 320 and/or 330 an operator can optimally position andangle of the wire with respect to plane of the end of depressors 312 (orthe opening, if rows of depressors are not used).

FIG. 3 is cross-section of a vibrating hair cutting unit 100 havingvibrating compartment 300 and a relatively non-vibrating structure 106,with wire 260 positioned within a gap 328. Optionally, skin-depressingelements 312 are elongate elements, positioned on one side of wire 260,pointing toward gap 328. As indicated above, a row of skin depressingelements 314 may comprise elongate elements on the opposite side of wire260 gap that point toward gap 328. Optionally, post supports 160 and 162are positioned against posts 240 and 242 to prevent wire 260 fromcontacting skin depressing elements 312 and/or 314.

Structure 106, for example, comprises a mechanical motion detector wheel110 that rotates along a surface, for example area of skin 400 (FIG. 4)and signals a controller 118 that unit 100 is moving in relation to skin400. In an exemplary embodiment, controller 118 turns vibrator 350 on oroff in response to movement, thereby causing vibrator 350 to selectivelyprovide vibrations.

Optionally, motion detector wheel 110 switches vibrator 350 on when unit100 moves above a minimum speed in relation to skin 400 and switchesvibrator 350 off when unit 100 moves below the minimum speed. Inexemplary embodiments of the invention, the minimum speed is between 0.2to 1 cm/second optionally about 0.5 cm/sec. In some embodiments of theinvention, the motion detector also indicates when the speed is above avalue to cause proper hair removal. In general, this speed is above 3cm/sec. However, this value may vary depending on the amount diameterand temperature of the wire. Alternatively or additionally, mechanicalmotion detector 110 comprises an optical motion detector that directscontroller 118 to switch vibrator 350 on or off. Optionally, in additionto controlling vibrations, motion detector 110 functions to switch heatgenerated by wire 260 on or off in response to motion of unit 100 onskin 400. Optionally, the system includes a visual indication of whetherthe heat and/or vibration are activated, as for example a light. In anembodiment of the invention the light is green when the velocity is in adesired range and red when it is outside this range.

In an exemplary embodiment, a battery 114, for example, provides powerto vibrator 350 and/or wire 260. Optionally, battery 114 is rechargeableand, for example, linked by a power input 116 to an external powersource, for example a power converter and/or an AC electric powerreceptacle (not shown). Alternatively or additionally, power input 116is directly connected to wire 260 and/or vibrator 350 without battery114 intervening and wire 260 is powered, for example, by AC current.

For clarity of presentation, in these embodiments, connections, forexample between tension posts 240 and 242, and/or vibrator 350, andpower supply 114, are not shown. However in an exemplary embodiment, asimple arrangement of electrical connectors is used to electrifyheat-generating wire 260, vibrator 350 and/or other componentsassociated with unit 100.

In an exemplary embodiment, cross pin 132 has end pins 134 and 136 thatattach to structure 106, allowing vibrating compartment 300 to vibrateon posts 130 and 138 in relation to structure 106. One or more movementlimiters 332 that abut post 130 and/or 138 to limit excursion of posts130 and 138 during vibration of compartment 300 optionally project fromhousing 106. In an exemplary embodiment, movement limiters 332 comprisecompressible material, for example a silicone. In an alternativeexemplary embodiment, frame 200 is connected directly to vibrator 350and compartment 300 and structure 106 remain stationary whileheat-generating wire 260 vibrates in relation to skin 400.

In an exemplary embodiment, compartment 300 comprises a container 140adapted for receiving a fluid and/or solid deodorant 142. Container 140,for example, is joined to a passage 146 having a venturi opening 148.Deodorant 142 atomizes as compartment 300 vibrates and is distributedthrough venturi opening 148 to the area around wire 260 and/or to skin400.

Alternatively or additionally, deodorant 142 vaporizes in response toheat provided by heat-generating wire 260. Alternatively or additionallya cover 310 is provided on passage 146 and a user-operated trigger 308is provided on structure 106 that opens cover 310 to release vaporsand/or aerosol from deodorant 142.

No matter what type of dispensation means is used, though, as deodorant142 atomizes and/or vaporizes, it passes through communication passage146 to the general area of heat-generating wire 260 and skin 400,thereby masking and/or neutralizing odors generated during cutting ofhair. The deodorant (which can be a perfume that masks the smell of theburnt hair), can be provided in different popular scents

In still another alternative exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, asmoke and/or odor-removing filter 280 is located over ventilation holes380 in strut 244. A rotatable ventilator prop blade 236 (or otherpumping mechanism) rotates to cause odors to be drawn through filter280. A ventilator passage connecting an input of filter 280 to holes 380may be provided more complete flow of the air containing the burnt odorto filter 280

Optionally, filter 280 comprises a porous material that absorbs adeodorant, for example a liquid deodorant and an operator places liquiddeodorant on at least one area of filter 280. As odors pass over filter280, they are neutralized and/or replaced with a pleasant fragrance.Optionally, odor-removing filter 280 is located in or adjacent areceptacle 374 that additionally collects cut hair 460 (FIG. 3).

Optionally, blade 236 is activated together with the heat and/orvibration. Optionally, it is deactivated at the same time as one or bothof these elements or operates for a somewhat longer time to provideadditional odor removal.

FIG. 4 is schematic cross-sectional view of vibrating hair cutting unit100 cutting hair 404 that is growing from area of skin 400, inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

In an exemplary embodiment, an electrostatic outcropping 370 isincorporated into unit 100, for example near motion detector wheel 110and electrostatically attracts a cut hair 460 cut by heat-generatingwire 260. Electrostatic outcropping 370, for example, Teflon will selfcharge, by friction with the skin, to an extent suitable for attractingthe hair. Other charging means and materials can also be used.

Optionally, hair collection receptacle 374 is juxtaposed nearoutcropping 370 to collect cut hair 460 that accumulates on outcropping370. Optionally, receptacle 374 has a collection aid 378, comprising acomb or brush, that brings cut hair 460 in proximity of outcropping 370.

In an exemplary embodiment, the current through wire 260 is 0.5 A,though it may vary, depending on the dimensions and/or materialscomprising wire 260. In order to cut efficiently, wire 260, for example,reaches a peak temperature of between 700 and 800° C., when wire 260 isheld against hair 404 for 10–100 milliseconds, optionally 25–75milliseconds.

Lower temperatures, for example 500° C., can be used to cut hair 404when wire 260 is held against hair for longer periods of times, forexample, 50–150 milliseconds. Higher temperatures, for example 1000° C.,can be used to cut hair 404 when wire 260 is held against hair 404 forshorter periods of time, for example, 5–15 milliseconds.

Power supply 114, for example, produces between 3 and 30 volts andbetween 0.030 and 5 amperes, depending on the dimensions of wire 260.

In an exemplary embodiment, wire 260 has a diameter of 0.07–0.1millimeters. Alternatively, wire 260 has a diameter of above 0.1millimeters, when manufactured from a less flexible and/or weakermaterial and below 0.07 millimeters when manufactured from a moreflexible and/or stronger material.

Wire 260 has a length, for example, of 25–30 millimeters though it couldhave a length greater than 30 millimeters or less than 25 millimeters,based upon, for example, the amount of hairs 404 that it is designed tocut on each pass.

In an exemplary embodiment, wire 260 is manufactured from Kantaal D, (analloy of nickel chromium and other metals manufactured by KantaalGroup). Alternative materials for wire 260 include Nichrome or otherwire resistance materials

Examples of springy electrically conductive materials used inmanufacturing posts 240 and/or 242, include spring steel (SS 302) andberyllium copper. Optionally, the posts are plated with a material suchas tin, which improves conductivity to the wire and solderability of theposts.

Skin-depressing elements 312 are shown as being straight comb-likepieces, though their shape could vary. Alternatively or additionally,rows of skin-depressing elements 312 with varied designs could beincluded in a kit provided with unit 100. For example, rows ofskin-depressing elements 312 included in the kit could be curved alongtheir length, semi circular or even end in round balls. Use of thevarious designs of rows of skin depressors 312 could be based on, forexample hair density and/or preference of the operator.

A variety of numerical indicators have been utilized to describe theheat-generating wire. Additionally, a variety of numerical indicatorshave been utilized to describe structures besides heat-generating wire,including length, diameter and position of skin depressors in relationto the heat-generating wires. It should be understood that thesenumerical indicators could vary even further based upon a variety ofengineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporatedinto the invention. The reader is further referred to the abovereferenced PCT applications, which contain numerous variations on manyof the features described herein.

It should be further understood that the individual features describedherein can be used together, in the manner above, in a single shavingdevice. Alternatively, each of the features (or some combination ofthem) can be used separately, for example, by being added to one of thedevices shown in the above referenced PCT publications. Furthermore, itshould be understood that the examples given above are exemplary innature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or theclaims.

The terms “include”, “comprise” and “have” and their conjugates as usedherein mean “including but not necessarily limited to.”

1. A hair cutting apparatus comprising: a structure, a portion of whichis adapted for placement against a skin surface in an area where hair isto be cut; an elongate element heated to a temperature capable ofcutting hair at least a portion of the elongate element being juxtaposedwith said portion; a vibrating structure, on which said elongate elementis mounted such that the elongate element does not bum the skin surface;and a housing in which the vibrating structure is mounted.
 2. Apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein vibrations of the vibrating structurecauses the heat-generating element to pass two or more times over hairas the apparatus is moved slowly along a hair containing area of theskin.
 3. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the elongate element ismounted between two posts separated by a distance, one or both of theposts comprising a resilient material, adapted to tension the elongateelement.
 4. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein each post isrelatively flexible in response to force applied in a first direction,and relatively non-flexible in response to force applied in a seconddirection.
 5. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein at least a portionof the posts comprises a guideway against which at least a portion ofthe elongate element is mounted.
 6. Apparatus according to claim 3,wherein the posts are electrically conductive.
 7. Apparatus according toclaim 6 wherein the elongate element is connected to the posts. 8.Apparatus according to claim 6, including electrically conductivesockets on the structure adapted to receive the posts.
 9. Apparatusaccording to claim 3, and including two or more post stabilizers, whichlimit the movement of the posts with respect to the housing in adirection perpendicular to an axis of the elongate element. 10.Apparatus according to claim 1, and including an eccentric rotatingweight that causes the structure to vibrate as the weight rotates. 11.Apparatus according to claim 1 and including a motion detector thatturns the vibrating structure on or off in response to movement of theelongate element along the area.
 12. Apparatus according to claim 1wherein the heated element is a wire.
 13. Apparatus according to claim 1wherein the apparatus is a hand held apparatus adapted to be pressedagainst the skin of a user and cut hair on said skin at or near thesurface of the skin.
 14. A method of cutting hair from an area of skinwith a vibrating heat-generating element comprising: a) heating anelongate element to a temperature high enough to cut the hair; b)placing the heated elongate element against the area; and c) vibratingthe element in a direction perpendicular to a long axis thereof, so thatit makes multiple passes over the area during the placing.
 15. A methodaccording to claim 14 further comprising collecting the cut hair.
 16. Amethod according to claim 15 including moving the cut hair into areceptacle.
 17. A method according to claim 14 wherein the elongateelement is a wire.
 18. A method according to claim 14 and includingmoving the elongate element along the surface of the skin of an areafrom which hair is to be removed by hand.
 19. Apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein at least a portion of the elongate element contacts theskin.
 20. A hair cutting apparatus comprising: an elongate elementheated to a temperature capable of cutting hair; a vibrating structure,on which said elongate element is mounted such that the elongate elementdoes not burn the skin surface; a housing in which the vibratingstructure is mounted; and a motion detector that turns the vibratingstructure on or off in response to movement of the elongate elementalong the area.
 21. Apparatus according to claim 20, and including aneccentric rotating weight that causes the structure to vibrate as theweight rotates.
 22. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the motiondetector turns the vibrating structure on and off in response to aminimum speed.
 23. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the motiondetector provides an indication of speed in excess of a given value. 24.Apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the indication comprises avisual indication.
 25. Apparatus according to claim 23, wherein theindication comprises a shutting off of the vibration.
 26. Apparatusaccording to claim 20, wherein the motion detector additionally controlsthe generation of heat on the elongate element.
 27. Apparatus accordingto claim 26, wherein the motion detector turns the heat generatingelement off in response to a measurement of a speed less than apredetermined speed.
 28. Apparatus according to claim 26, wherein themotion detector turns the heat generating element off in response to aspeed greater than a predetermined speed.
 29. Apparatus according toclaim 20, wherein the motion detector comprises at least one of: a) amechanical motion detector; and b) an optical motion detector. 30.Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the heated element is a wire.31. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the apparatus is a handheld apparatus adapted to be pressed against the skin of a user and cuthair on said skin at or near the surface of the skin.